Tuesday

Environment Massachusetts' state director, Ben Hellerstein, presented the Salem Democrat with a framed certificate in the congressman's Front Street office on Monday afternoon. The organization is a citizen-funded advocacy group that works for a cleaner, greener, healthier future.

“We are pleased to recognize Congressman Seth Moulton for his environmental leadership,” said Hellerstein. “Congressman Moulton has consistently stood on the side of our environment, our health, and our future. At a time when our core environmental protections are under attack, we’re glad to have such a staunch champion in Congressman Moulton.”

Moulton, Hellerstein said, garnered the award, in part, for his 100 percent score on the organization’s scorecard and his pro-environmental voting on 32 roll-call votes in 2017. Legislation that the congressman voted on ran the gamut from clean air, clean water and renewable energy to public lands, climate change and funding for environmental agencies.

"I am proud to be receiving the Environmental Champion Award from Environment Massachusetts,” said Moulton. “Environmental protection and economic growth go hand in hand. Our district's history and economic livelihood is inextricably connected to our oceans and natural resources.

"I’m committed to doing everything I can to create forward-looking policies and adcate for smart, effective regulations that will ensure a healthier environment for future generations," said Moulton.

Moulton received the award not only for his voting record but also for joining Massachusetts Sen. Edward Markey in co-penning a letter - one Massachusetts’ entire federal congressional delegation signed – that urged Gov. Charlie Baker “to stand up against drilling off of Massachusetts’ coast.”

The letter was in direct opposition to Trump administration’s proposed offshore drilling plan.

“With special interests lining up to dismantle protections for our air, our water, and the places we love, we need to stand up and fight back,” said Hellerstein. “We’re grateful for Congressman Moulton’s partnership as we defend our environment and work toward a cleaner, healthier future.”